Professional Soccer Returns To IMG Academy With Bradenton Area IMG Suncoast Pro Classic

A dozen Major League Soccer and international clubs are set to train and compete this pre-season at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., with a number of teams arriving on a rolling basis for training, Jan. 25 - Feb. 15. Following the training period, eight separate clubs will arrive for the inaugural IMG Suncoast Pro Classic, Feb. 18-28.

The tournament will feature a round robin competition format with the top two teams from each bracket moving on to the championship match. Bracket 1 will comprise Toronto FC (MLS), New York Red Bulls (MLS), HB Koge (Denmark; Danish First Division) and Oklahoma City Energy FC (USL PRO). Bracket 2 will include the Philadelphia Union (MLS), Columbus Crew (MLS), TP Mazembe (Democratic Republic of the Congo; Linafoot League) and the Costa Rica U23 Men’s National Team.

The tentative schedule for the IMG Suncoast Pro Classic is as follows:

All match times are subject to change. The most up-to-date schedule and ticketing information for the IMG Suncoast Pro Classic will be available online at the following link; tournament day passes and bundles available: http://www.imgsuncoastproclassic.com

A community kickoff event is slated for February 16 in downtown Lakewood Ranch and will include opportunities for fans to meet players from participating teams. Details to follow.